by Christian Lopez
Staff Writer
Coming back from an upsetting loss to Cal Lutheran, the University of La Verne women’s soccer team played host Wednesday evening to a 2-1 victory over Pomona Pitzer.
The Leopards entered the game in a must-win situation in order to stay in the running for a Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference title.
“We can’t lose another game if we want to have a chance,” said coach Wendy Zwissler.
Getting off to a slow start, the Leopards did not get on the scoreboard until the second half. Katie Zwissler had the first of the team’s two scores with an assist from Adriana Ramirez. La Verne’s 1-0 lead would not last as Pomona tied the game with a goal from Lauren Salvail.
The Sagehens’ attempt to keep up with La Verne proved to be brief, and Erica Borbon headed one into the net with the assist coming from a corner kick from Rachel Lieberman. La Verne’s strong finish helped the team keep their hopes alive in their run for the conference title.
Playing reigning conference champs Cal Lutheran last Friday was perhaps the Leopards best chance to show opponents they had what it takes to be on top.
The Regals have held the SCIAC crown the last nine years in a row and look to do it again this year with a perfect 5-0 record in conference play.
“Our team set a goal to beat Cal Lutheran this year,” said senior captain Katie Zwissler.
The Leopards were startled by Cal Lutheran 17 seconds into the game as Lauren Huckleberry dribbled by defenders to score the only goal of the game; it was enough to give the Regals the 1-0 victory over La Verne.
Although Cal Lutheran captured the win, the Leopards came out of the game with their heads up after a hard-fought effort. The team played tough, stingy defense to a Regal offense that has outscored their opponents 22-0 in the last four games. The Leopards also outshot the Regals 17-14.
“Cal Lutheran was lucky,” said Zwissler, “We had a hard time finishing our shots.”
La Verne will have another opportunity to face Cal Lutheran when the two teams meet for a rematch on Oct. 24.
The team’s next match will be tomorrow at Occidental College at 11 a.m.
